Mexico Beach Gumbo Cook-off this weekend

Some 30 chefs will compete this Saturday for the title of Gumbo King in the 16th Annual Mexico Beach Gumbo Cook-Off!

The event takes place at Sunset Park beginning at 10 a.m. CT and lasting until all the gumbo and Brunswick stew runs out.

Tickets will be available for purchase onsite and will allow guests to sample the competing gumbos and Brunswick stews.

Barbecue sandwiches, hot dogs and drinks will be served as alternatives and live music from Konkrete Soul will fill the beach.

“This event is one of the highlights for Mexico Beach,” said Kimberly Shoaf, president of the Mexico Beach Community Development Council. “We draw in record-breaking crowds every year.

“The Gumbo Cook-Off allows families to come spend the day at the beach with live music and all the gumbo you can eat.”

Awards will be given in both amateur and restaurant categories for gumbo and an overall category for Brunswick stew. Judges taste buds will be swayed by best overall taste and presentation.

All proceeds raised at the cook-off will help fund the Special Events for Mexico Beach’s Best Blast on the Beach July Fourth fireworks celebration.

“The cook-off has become one of the must attend events here in Mexico Beach,” said Shoaf. “This is one event you will not want to miss!”

Happening simultaneously at the Beach Walk shopping plaza will be the third annual Society of Expressive Artists (SEA) Art Walk, which will showcase artists from all along the Forgotten Coast. (see related article.) Original art, crafts and jewelry will be sold and the event is a perfect opportunity for artists to network with one another.